How to Get and Activate Vodafone SIM Cards and eSIM: 2024 Guide for Tourists

Qatar travel is a wonderful experience for all tourists. However, having difficulty connecting to the internet can be a disruption that affects your experience in Qatar. This article will provide key information about Vodafone SIM Cards and eSIM of Vodafone network – the most popular network in Qatar to help you stay connected with friends and family back home.

I. Quick Facts about Vodafone

Vodafone Group plc  is a British multinational telecommunications company. Its registered office and global headquarters are in Newbury, Berkshire, England. It predominantly operates services in Asia, Africa, Europe, and Oceania.

  • Founded Year: Vodafone was founded in 1985.
  • Full Company Name: Vodafone Group Plc.
  • Brand Name: Vodafone. The brand name is a combination of “voice” and “data,” reflecting the company’s focus on telecommunications services.
  • Types of Services Provided: Mobile voice and data plans, mobile internet, messaging services, mobile broadband, fixed-line services, enterprise solutions, IoT (Internet of Things) services, and digital content.
  • Number of Subscribers: Over 300 million mobile customers across its global operations.

II. Why Vodafone When Traveling Qatar – Coverage and Speed

Vodafone is one of the big mobile operators in Qatar. Therefore, tourists can trust in mobile network’s quality of this operator

1. Coverage: 

Vodafone Qatar coverage
Vodafone Qatar coverage
  • Broad 4G bandwidth on most popular frequencies
  • Extensive 4G coverage in major cities and suburbs
  • 4G Coverage: Available in key population areas

2. Speed

Download Speed Experience in Qatar
Download Speed Experience in Qatar
Upload Speed Experience in Qatar
Upload Speed Experience in Qatar
  • Download Speed Experience: approximately 40.4Mbps
  • Upload Speed Experience: about 9.8Mbps.

Vodafone mobile network allow traveler enjoy their trip with hassle-free experience

III. What are the Best Connectivity Options of Vodafone for Travelers to Qatar?

Let’s explore the best connectivity choices provided by Vodafone in Qatar: 

1.Prepaid SIM Cards:

Vodafone offers prepaid SIM cards that are perfect for travelers. For just 10 QAR, you can get a SIM card. 

These packages include data and minutes, so you can stay connected and make calls without spending too much.

2. Qatar eSIM Cards:

eSIM is the best choice for tourists
eSIM is the best choice for tourists

If you prefer a digital solution, Vodafone also offers eSIM cards for tourists. 

Simply download the eSIM onto your compatible device, and you’re good to go. 

3.Roaming with Vodafone:

Vodafone offers roaming services that allow you to stay connected and use your mobile services while traveling abroad. With Vodafone’s roaming service, you can make calls, send text messages, and use data just like you would in your home country. 

4. Hotspot with Vodafone:

A Vodafone Qatar hotspot
A Vodafone Qatar hotspot

Vodafone also provides hotspot services, allowing you to share your mobile data connection with other devices such as laptops, tablets, or other smartphones. 

Advice: Vodafone Qatar eSIM is the best option for travelers who want to keep online all time with affordable prices. 

IV. Best Vodafone SIM Cards for Tourists & Cost

Note: $1 USD = 3.64 QAR.

The cost of a Vodafone prepaid SIM card in Qatar is 10 QAR. Once you have the SIM card, you can choose from various available packages to top up your balance. Here are the options:

  • 3 GB data + 120 minutes = 30 QAR
  • 4 GB data + 200 minutes = 50 QAR
  • 8 GB data + 240 minutes = 60 QAR (approximately $16 USD)
  • 16 GB data + 360 minutes = 100 QAR (approximately $27.5 USD)
  • 24 GB data + 750 minutes = 150 QAR
Some Vodafone Qatar SIM Card packages
Some Vodafone Qatar SIM Card packages

Vodafone provides both physical prepaid SIM cards and eSIM cards for tourists, offering flexibility and convenience. For more detailed information, please visit the Vodafone Qatar website.

V. Does Vodafone Support eSIM in Qatar?

For sure. Qatar eSIM, short for embedded SIM, is a type of SIM card that is built directly into a device. Unlike traditional SIM cards that are physical, removable cards, eSIMs are integrated into the device’s hardware or firmware.

  • Improved User Experience: eSIM eliminates the need for physical SIM card handling, making it more convenient for users to switch between mobile networks or add new subscriptions.
  • QR Code or App Activation: eSIM activation typically involves scanning a QR code or using a dedicated app provided by the mobile network operator. 
  • Profile Management: With eSIM, you can store multiple SIM profiles on a single device and switch between them as needed. 
  • Device Compatibility: eSIM is supported by an increasing number of smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, and other connected devices. 

VI. Where to Buy a Vodafone SIM card and eSIM?

We will explore three different avenues for obtaining a Vodafone SIM card: upon arrival, Vodafone stores, and other authorized retail stores. 

1.Upon Arrival:  

Vodafone often has kiosks or dedicated counters at major airports, making it easy to acquire a SIM card right after landing. 

Note: Be prepared to present your passport or other identification documents, as they may be necessary to complete the purchase and activate the SIM card.

2. Vodafone Stores

Physical Vodafone stores
Physical Vodafone stores

Vodafone operates numerous retail stores across various countries, providing a reliable and direct source for purchasing SIM cards. 

Visiting a Vodafone store allows you to interact with knowledgeable staff who can guide you through the available options and help you choose the most suitable plan for your needs. 

3. Other Authorized Retail Stores

Authorized retail outlets also offer Vodafone SIM cards. These can include electronics stores, mobile phone shops, and convenience stores. 

Gigago is a reliable Vodafone’s retail provider. You can explore all Vodafone packages with cheap prices which can be up your expectations. With Gigago, you also have additional benefits: 

Gigago Qatar SIM eSIM plans
Gigago Qatar SIM eSIM plans
  • 100% online
  • No passport
  • No ID card
  • No waiting for SIM delivery
  • Easy setup ( just scan QR)
  • Have the internet as soon as arriving in Qatar.

For Qatar, Gigago offers multiple data plan options, starting from 1 GB for 7 days with $5.00 . What is great about Gigago’s Qatar eSIM is that its plans’ costs are diversifying, varying between $5.00$49.00 . Thus, it does not matter how Internet users you are and how long your trip is in Qatar, there is always an option for you with Gigago.

Tips for Buying a Physical SIM Card:

  • Check compatibility: Ensure that your mobile device is compatible with the network frequencies used by Vodafone in the region you are purchasing the SIM card for. 

  • Research available plans: Before making a purchase, familiarize yourself with the available plans and pricing options offered by Vodafone. 

  • Bring necessary documents: When purchasing a physical SIM card, it is advisable to carry your passport or other acceptable identification documents.

VII. How to Activate Vodafone SIM/eSIM in Qatar?

Vodafone’s activation process is easy and convenient for tourists. You just need to follow some simple steps below: 

1. How to Use Vodafone SIM Card in Qatar?

You only need to follow these simple steps and everything will be ready.

  1. Insert the SIM card: Locate the SIM card slot on your device
  2. Power on your device: Turn on your device and wait for it to recognize the SIM card
  3. Activate the SIM card
  4. Set up APN settings if you can not use the eSIM.
  5. Check your services.
Two Vodafone types of SIM Card with different activation
Two Vodafone types of SIM Card with different activation

2. How to Activate Vodafone eSIM?

Getting started with an Vodafone eSIM for Qatar is quite easy as follows:

  1. Install the eSIM
  2. Activate the eSIM
  3. Set up the eSIM
  4. Start using the eSIM: Once the eSIM is activated and set up, you can start using its services.

Please check your detailed instructions below:

VIII. How to Top-up Vodafone SIM/eSIM

To top up your Vodafone SIM card, you have several options:

  • My Vodafone app: Download the My Vodafone app and easily top up with just a tap. You can find the app on both Apple and Android devices.
  • Online: Visit the Vodafone top-up portal and fill in a few details to complete your top-up up.
  • By phone: Call 2345 free from your Vodafone Pay as you go phone and follow the instructions to top up.
  • By text: Text TOPUP to 2345 with the amount you want to add and the last four digits of your payment card. For example, text TOPUP 10 1234 to add $10 USD using a card ending in 1234.
  • Top up automatically: You can set up automatic top-up to ensure you’re always topped up. Download the My Vodafone app and choose “Top up” from the main menu, then select “Auto Top up.” Alternatively, call 18829 (free from your Vodafone Pay as you go mobile) to register and make your initial top-up. Choose how often you want your top-up to automatically activate – weekly, monthly, or every 30 days.
A Qatar Vodafone eSIM with essential information
A Qatar Vodafone eSIM with essential information

Note: You can check your Pay as you go balance through the My Vodafone app, online with My Vodafone, by dialing *#1345# from your Vodafone Pay as you go phone, or by calling 2345 free from your Vodafone Pay as you go phone.

IX. FAQs about Vodafone in Qatar

How do I activate a top up voucher?

You can activate your top up voucher using one of the following options:
In the My Vodafone app
Online at My Vodafone
Call 2345 free from your Vodafone Pay as you go phone

Can I access Vodafone 5G abroad on my iPhone?

Yes – this was introduced with the iOS 14.5 update that was released on Monday 26 April 2021. You’ll need to ensure that your iPhone 12 is updated with this version of iOS to benefit from 5G roaming. iPhone SE (3rd gen), iPhone 13 and iPhone 14 already came with this update installed.

Note: iPhone 12 was the first iPhone introduced with 5G support in September 2020.

X. Conclusion.

In conclusion, we hope this guide has been helpful for tourists traveling to Qatar. With Vodafone SIM Cards and eSIM, tourists can ensure a smooth and seamless mobile experience while exploring their destination. So, get ready to enjoy your travels with Vodafone’s convenient connectivity solutions!